⛪St Ishmael.

Nestled in the heart of Camrose, Pembrokeshire, St Ishmael’s Church is a striking example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture with a rich and layered history that spans centuries.

Origins and Early History.

The church is first recorded in 1291 in the Taxatio Ecclesiastica, a medieval census of church wealth. At that time, it was under the patronage of the Augustinian monks of Haverfordwest Priory, reflecting its significance in the medieval Welsh religious landscape. The church’s dedication to St. Ishmael, a 6th-century Welsh saint, suggests even earlier origins, possibly linked to the Age of the Saints, when this region was a hub of Christian activity.

Architectural Evolution.

St Ishmael’s Church is notable for its exceptional length, comprising a four-bay nave and a three-bay chancel. The oldest parts of the structure, including the nave and chancel, date back to the 13th century. In the 14th or 15th century, a chapel and transept were added, followed by the construction of a robust west tower in the 15th century. This tower, later expanded with a polygonal staircase turret in the 16th century, features battlements and gargoyles, adding to its defensive character.

The church originally featured narrow lancet windows and a triad of Gothic windows in the eastern wall of the chancel. Unfortunately, many of these were lost during Victorian restorations in the late 19th century, which also introduced neo-Gothic elements and replaced the oak roof truss.

Reformation and Restoration.

Following the dissolution of Haverfordwest Priory under Henry VIII, the church’s patronage passed to the Crown. In 1543, Arnold Butler of Johnston leased the rectory, and by 1620, it had reverted to a vicarage.

The church underwent significant restoration in the 1870s and again in 1883–84 under the direction of architect J.P. Seddon. These efforts aimed to preserve its medieval character while updating its structure. However, a fire in 2000 caused substantial damage, particularly to the 19th-century roof, prompting another round of restoration completed in 20012.

Notable Features.

Despite the changes over time, St Ishmael’s retains several medieval elements:

• A 12th-century font with a scalloped underside.
• A 15th-century piscina with an ogee head in the chancel.
• Remnants of a rood stair and medieval benching.
• A carved early medieval stone, possibly a cross slab, is built into the chancel arch.

Legacy.

Today, St Ishmael’s Church stands as a Grade II listed building, recognised for its architectural and historical significance. It remains a cherished landmark in Camrose, embodying the spiritual and cultural heritage of Pembrokeshire through the ages.